A Weak Chief
Dear Editor;
Re: John G. Diefenbaker
Most of the recent articles I’ve been reading about the late John G. Diefenbaker lauded his vision for Canada. Having a vision for Canada is one thing, implementing it is another. John Diefenbaker was, by all accounts, a decent man, but a failed politician. Diefenbaker’s vision for Canada didn’t include Quebec, a province he never understood. He was also opposed to the adoption of the Maple Leaf Flag. And let’s not forget the devalued “Diefendollar .” The fact is the “Chief” was out of his depth in federal politics. I think he would have been far happier as a Governor General. He would have loved the ceremony of the office, especially dressing up in the Regal silks. Diefenbaker was, sadly, yesterday’s man. A dyed-in-the-wool colonial at a time when Canada was yearning for a leader with a real vision for a post-colonial Canada. Pierre E. Trudeau claimed he was the man we were waiting for. History will tell whether he was right.
William Bedford
Toronto
